Spring 2021 - Everything that is done in this world is done by hope. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr - Continuum of Care, Inc.
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Spring 2021
“
Everything
that is done in
this world is
done by hope.
Dr. Martin
Luther King Jr.
Stay Connected
LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT
I S THERE ANYONE ELSE who could not wait to see 2020 from our rearview mirrors??
None of us ever thought a pandemic would come and change our lives so dramatically.
No one escaped the impact of COVID-19; we all just experienced it differently. One thing is
for sure – we had to learn how to take care of ourselves and each other like we never had
to before. So many of us lost loved ones to this virus. Our children are struggling to learn
outside of the classroom. Businesses, particularly small community partners, are closing,
their livelihoods taken away. Our own Grassroots Deli could not sustain the impact of
COVID.
Our world was also rocked by extreme racial injustice day after day as we realized that
sitting and watching was no longer an option if we wanted to live in a just world. We hope
that the work that has begun
will change the future of racial reckoning in our country.
Towards that end, Continuum is trying to join the change
we want to see in the future by convening a Racial Justice
Task Force. We have committed to working on issues of
racial injustice in our work world and in our communities.
However long it takes to witness the change, we will be
there working.
Throughout all of this, we have witnessed some wonder-
ful things. Heroes who came out from the sidelines to help
those who were sick. Others who made sure people had
food and shelter. Neighbors who took care of each other,
especially the elderly and those who were alone. Protesters
who stood up in the worst of times to say “Enough” and
face the consequences of changing history.
The new year will still bring with it many of the same
stressors and challenges. But there is change in the air. A
vaccine. A new President and Vice President. And all those heroes are still here.
As we move forward in 2021, we continue to care for our clients. Thanks to our dedicated staff, very few of our
clients have had to endure the virus.
Our staff have been the glue that has
kept us together and our hopes for
2021 very much alive!
Thank you all for Continuum continues to expand
its services for those who need it
standing up with the most. A newly adopted Strategic
us this year. Three-Year Plan will guide us as we
strive to meet the needs of even more
vulnerable folks. Soon, the pandemic
will be behind us and we will move
forward with renewed commitment and strength from all that we have
learned from each other this year.
I sincerely thank you all for standing up with us this year and meeting
so many challenges. May 2021 be a wonderful year filled with hope for you
and yours.
All my best,
President & CEO
2 | THE CONTINUUM EXCHANGE | SPRING 2021
Are You Out of Your Mind?
M OST OF US have reached a mental tipping point this past year!
Mental illness has become the pandemic within the pandemic.
It’s no wonder, as isolation, anxiety, grief, frustration, and uncertain-
ty have been major themes for over a year.
5 C’S TO HELP YOU COPE
Connect Come out of isolation. Humans, even introverts, need social interaction. Make a point
to connect for the sake of your health. Go outside and socialize from a distance. Or,
connect virtually — often.
• Connect through Teleparty to watch a movie and chat with friends in the same
window. Or, host a virtual game night party and play Among Us!, a multiplayer social
deduction game.
• Set up a virtual activity with family and friends. A cooking or sewing lesson would be
a great way for grandparents to share their special skills. Sign up for an online book
club or art class with friends to have fun while learning.
• Use digital platforms like FaceTime, Skype, Facebook Messenger (you don’t need a
Facebook Account), Houseparty, and Zoom to keep connected.
Visit ContinuumCT.org/Coronavirus (Social/Entertainment section) for more ideas.
Calm A little mindfulness or deep breathing goes a long way to take the edge off of the anxiety and
frustration.
• Try a Deep Breathing Break:
Look up at the ceiling, or close your eyes.
Take five deep breaths in and out.
Imagine all that stress leaving your body with each exhale.
• Smile: it triggers a reaction in your brain and your body will think you’re content.
• Mindful music listening can also help you reconnect with your breath and body. Inhale
and exhale as you listen and notice how the music makes you feel. Learn more here:
https://rb.gy/e9cceb.
Listen to our Sounds for Self-Care Playlist: https://bit.ly/2Pdscmr.
Comedy Laughter increases the endorphins released by your brain and cools down your stress and
anxiety response. Immerse yourself in humor at least once per day. Pick your poison:
• Watch one of the “Funniest TV Shows of All Time”: http://bit.ly/2ZWBy7X.
• Enjoy TikTok’s ingenious, easily digestible short form comedic videos. Download the
app or Google some of the accounts on this list: http://bit.ly/37PNA7w.
• Laughter yoga exercises are designed to get people to laugh for no reason, and are
combined with simple yoga breathing techniques and “laughter meditation.” Learn
more and try some exercises here: http://bit.ly/3qUUekz.
Read “18 Simple Ways to Put Laughter Back into Your Life”: http://bit.ly/3aREHMS.
continued on pg 9
A S A CHILD, KYLE was
diagnosed with ADHD. Yet,
he exhibited a variety of
Hope for
behaviors and feelings that could not
simply be attributed to ADHD. In
high school, he got into trouble
the Future
often, and he had been arrested
numerous times during his adolescence and Kyle’s Story
young adulthood. He drank heavily and
often. There were anger management issues, and major forward.
disputes and struggles with his parents and sister. He Clients are
experienced dark times of depression, and periods of in the
cutting himself and not eating. During one holiday, the program
police were called and Kyle was arrested for a dispute at ranging
home and threatening to take his own life. from a few
There are many facets to all of us, including Kyle. For weeks for
example, he is intelligent; he loves human connection; he stabilization
plays music, he dates, and he has a strong need for valida- to up to a
tion. Kyle worked two jobs at a time and was a volunteer year, or more, of residential care, therapy, life coaching,
fire fighter for eight and a half years. He says he is liked by and case management, depending on their individual
many, and then there are those who don’t like or needs.
understand him. The day Kyle entered the CRS program, he sobbed in
A year ago, at age 26, Kyle ended up in the hospital. one of the staff’s arms, grieving the loss of his girlfriend.
Although he had been hospitalized a few times before, and His grief was deep. Over time, he developed trust with the
had been part of a substance use treatment program for staff and fellow clients, and he actively participated in
young adults, nothing made a sustainable difference. They extensive therapies, life coaching, and wellness activities.
lacked the intensity of therapy and long-term connection His medications were adjusted and monitored.
he needed. Unlike hospital treatment or the rehab
Kyle had hit bottom when he came to program he attended previously, Kyle
the hospital. A doctor entered the room says CRS got him to a point of true
and, after a 15-minute conversation, she sustainable recovery because of its
diagnosed him with high-functioning intensive therapies, skilled and caring
Autism, anxiety, depression, and bor- There are many staff, and the fact that they were
derline personality disorder. She told relentless in trying to support him. They
him she predicted he would bounce in
facets to all of us. helped him to understand and appreciate
and out of rehab programs for the rest of his complex diagnosis. They taught him
his life. Imagine! Kyle was overwhelmed methods to assess his feelings and anger
by her words and harsh demeanor, and and to control his behaviors. They
astounded by the doctor’s lack of compassion. He didn’t pushed him to work when he was in an emotional “bad
understand, nor did he feel respected, heard, or under- spot,” and gave him tools to balance, reframe, control,
stood. Those 15 minutes ignited fear and anger, and in a express himself, or blow off steam appropriately. Kyle
raised voice, he told her how he felt. Hospital staff were faithfully takes the medication he was prescribed so that he
called into the room carrying leather restraints, and at one can keep his mood stabilized and control his addictions
point they held him down with a knee on his neck as he and behaviors better. One of the most satisfying outcomes
cried out and resisted. of the program is that Kyle embraces his Autism, and
Kyle’s girlfriend promptly left him when she learned of enjoys connecting with other fellow high-functioning indi-
his diagnosis, explaining that she couldn’t handle someone viduals with Autism.
who has mental illness. This crushed him, and Kyle’s Kyle’s parents were integral participants in his
downward spiral was deep. That’s when he was referred program. They too wanted and needed to learn about his
to the Continuum Recovery Services (CRS) program. The diagnosis and effective ways to communicate with and
CRS residential program is designed to help individuals support him. As parents, they also received much needed
diagnosed with significant mental illness to stabilize and support given the past and ongoing challenges they have
recover from the point of crisis and then go on to learn experienced.
about themselves and how to manage their diagnosis and After several months at CRS, Kyle now lives back with
build a full and healthy life every single day going his mom. The relationship with his family has greatly
4 | THE CONTINUUM EXCHANGE | SPRING 2021
improved. He is continuously learning and connecting with new people. He also has a
spiritual side, and feels connected to Archangel Raphael, the archangel of healing. Kyle
has hope and aspirations for the future. He would love to be a famous musician, and
have a family someday with whom he plans to openly share all he has gone through and
all he has learned along his unique, winding road of life.
Is it Over A Lesson in Mindfulness IDECEMBER, COMPREHENSIVE
N
Treatment Connections* —a
collaborative partnership
between Continuum Recovery
Yet? Services and behavioral health
and substance use providers
Progressive Institute, Delphi
Behavioral Health Group, and
High Focus Centers —hosted
an online event to provide the
community and fellow clinicians
and their clients with tools to
manage the heightened stress and
anxiety we are all experiencing
during this pandemic.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Tracey Masella delivered a
dynamic presentation that
reminded us all to go back to the
basics by practicing mindfulness
and acceptance. Tracey reminded us that it is the awareness that results from intentionally staying in the here and now.
It brings us freedom from having to “fix” anything or anyone.
Mindfulness takes us from having to solve problems to being able to hear and validate those around us. By being
mindful, we are able to understand the “other’s” experience and we realize that they can manage their own emotions.
Acceptance, Tracey explained, is experiencing reality without judgment. To accept does not mean we are giving in or
giving up, but rather that we are welcoming reality with curiosity and
kindness — with a commitment to not making the problem worse by PL: Treat physical illness
staying miserable. E: Eat balanced meals
Tracey gave us an easy way to remember how to take care of ourselves A: Avoid mood altering drugs
during these difficult times by using the acronym PLEASE (see right). (including caffeine and sugar)
Using PLEASE will help us feel better both physically and emotionally S: Get a good night of sleep
and it is an easy way to maintain a balanced lifestyle, even with the E: Make time to exercise
restrictions that come with social distancing.
Tracey closed her presentation with a quote reminding us to take time away from our computers and social media
when we need to regroup:
“Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, even you.” - Anne Lamott
*For more information on Comprehensive Treatment Connections, reach out to Shayla Collier, MPA:
SCollier@continuumct.org, 203.530.4496. To watch the mindfulness presentation, visit: https://bit.ly/3idznpc.
“
Working through
COVID has been difficult,
but it’s been great to
have more one on one
time with each of our
residents. It has also
helped us to be more
Go to page 12-13 to see more of what our clients and staff have been up to during this time
creative and resourceful,
and to think outside of
the box.
“This is what we do every
day. We are not heroes,
it’s our job and we love it.”
This is What We Do
“ C ONTINUUM STAFF have been working tirelessly on the front lines to
keep our vulnerable clients safe, even as they stress over their
own safety and that of their loved ones. We appreciate and are proud
Our clients
of how staff have kept clients thriving in their recovery and supported
need us; we
their fellow colleagues amidst the upheaval of the past year. Here,
need to do
what we can to they share their thoughts on working through COVID.
”
protect them.
Modeling wearing a mask and encouraging social
distancing are new ADLs (activities of daily living).
It’s difficult work-
ing during this
pandemic but it’s
reassuring to have
the support from
upper manage-
ment. Seeing them
come into work
and doing it all
with us lets us
know that we
aren’t fighting this
alone.
6 | THE CONTINUUM EXCHANGE | SPRING 2021
”
A New Kind of Healthcare
T
ELEHEALTH IS A LOT OLDER than you might think. report feeling a sense of relief that they don’t have to find
The use of technology to remotely monitor patients transportation for their visits or use the public transporta-
between hospitals via closed circuit televisions was tion system, which can be overly stimulating for some of
first reported in the late our folks. Weather also plays
1950s and 60s. Long before a role in attendance; winter
that, the telephone made it months can lead to an increase
possible for doctors to in no shows or cancellations
check on their patients due to inclement weather.
without having to be in There are also drawbacks to
person. Today, the internet telehealth visits; some clients
and smart devices make have distractions in their envi-
connecting instantly with ronment, internet connection
others easier than ever. issues, or they simply do not
Despite this fact, for many have a smart phone. Though
reasons, most people still Continuum’s programs are set
prefer face to face visits for their medical and mental health up with the appropriate technology, clients who are not in
care. 2020 forced us all to shift our perspectives. residential programs may not have the same access. Also, it
The COVID-19 pandemic has caused can be challenging for some clients to fully
a dramatic increase in the need for engage over Zoom. Providers find it more
“Telehealth has been
telehealth and virtual visits. The CDC difficult to assess mood and affect or pick
reported a “154% increase in telehealth instrumental in up on subtle body language cues virtually,
visits during the last week of March fostering connection especially for nonverbal clients in our
2020, compared with the same period in in a time where developmental disability programs. “I have
2019 (Koonin LM, Hoots B, Tsang CA, et had to be a bit more creative in figuring out
isolation has caused
al., 2020). It’s simply not possible or safe how I can do an assessment over Zoom,”
to attend appointments in person. so much pain.” shares Dr. Hollywood. “I've had to play
Across Continuum, staff and clients games like Simon Says with some clients.”
have had to adjust to working with telehealth and virtual In addition to telehealth, Continuum’s clients have
supports, and the benefits and challenges therein as it been using virtual supports to stay connected with services
relates to behavioral healthcare. during the pandemic. Video conferencing applications
There has been a growing need for tele-behavioral have given clients and staff with the Community Integra-
health visits. According to Dr. Lauren Hollywood, a tion Program (CIP) the opportunity continued on pg 18
therapist with Continuum Integrated Behavioral
Health (CIBH), more people these days seem to
be feeling symptoms of depression and anxiety,
as well as dealing with substance relapse. It has
been reported that approximately 81% of behav-
ioral health providers began using telehealth for
the first time in the last 6 months, with a majority
of providers planning to continue the use of tele-
health visits (Healthcare Finance, 2020). CIBH,
Continuum’s outpatient therapy service, has a
waiting list of people seeking help. “Telehealth
has been instrumental in fostering connection in
a time where isolation has caused so much pain,”
says Susan Kelly, a therapist with CIBH.
When it comes to Continuum’s clients, pro-
viders have noticed certain advantages to tele-
health. They are “no showing” less and more apt
to follow treatment recommendations. Clients
Transform with Tapping
I F YOU’VE EVER GOTTEN a stomachache when you’re nervous or felt your heart racing when you were upset, then
you’re familiar with the mind-body connection. There is much evidence of the close relationship between our emo-
tional and physical health. For example, our bodies responding to stress and depression can result in high blood pres-
sure, ulcers, and fatigue.
Emotional freedom technique (EFT) is a practice that enables you to literally tap into the mind-body connection. This
holistic healing technique utilizes what is known in traditional Chinese medicine as “meridians,” a network of energy
pathways in the body. While focusing on negative emotions or an unresolved issue, you gently tap your fingertips on
various acupuncture points on the hands, face and body.
Research has shown that tapping triggers a parasympathetic (relaxation) nervous system response, sending calming
signals to the amygdala in the brain. So if you’re looking to reduce stress and anxiety, the power might just be at your
fingertips.
HOW TO PRACTICE EFT
Rate the emotional intensity level of your feelings on a scale of 1 to
1. 10, with 10 being the highest intensity.
Using the traditional EFT format, prepare a setup statement (right): Set-Up Statement Examples
2. "Even though state the problem , I phrase of acceptance.”
Even though I’m sad, I deeply and
Repeat the setup statement 3 times while tapping on the Karate completely love and accept myself.
3. chop point (tapping points on next page).
Even though work is stressful, I can
After tapping with the setup statement, gently tap acupoints on choose to be a little kinder to myself.
your face and body about 7 to 10 times while repeating reminder
4. phrases (below). After you finish tapping, relax and take a deep Even though I’m anxious about COVID, I
breath. When you have done the setup statement and the tapping accept all my feelings without judgment.
sequence, you have completed one round of EFT.
After round one, rate your intensity level again (1-10). Repeat
5. tapping as needed until you reach level 0, if possible.
Reminder Phrase Examples
The reminder
This stress from work.
phrases are
intended to hold
This sadness about the break-up. For more information on using
the problem in
your conscious tapping for mental health, visit
This fear of flying, it’s hard to breathe. www.TheTappingSolution.com
awareness while
or download the Tapping Solu-
tapping, thus
This anxiety about COVID. tion app from the App Store or
allowing the
Google Play.
energy to
This fear of leaving my home.
transform. Go to https://bit.ly/3pvrwpv for
This feeling of sadness. a “How to Tap” video.
Source: The AAMET Free EFT Manual, A Comprehensive Introductory Guide to EFT (April 2017)
8 | THE CONTINUUM EXCHANGE | SPRING 2021
Tapping Points
Karate Chop (KC), tap gently on the side of your hand.
Top of Head (TH), on the crown of the head, lightly tap
with all the fingertips – like gentle raindrops, in a circular
motion if you like.
Eyebrow (EB), beginning of eyebrow, tap on the brow
bone, near the center of the face.
Side of Eye (SE), on the bone near the outer edge of the
eye in line with the pupil when looking straight ahead.
Under the Eye (UE), on the top of the cheekbone under-
neath the pupil when looking straight ahead.
Under the Nose (UN), on the philtrum (the indentation
just above the top lip).
Chin Point (CH), in the indentation between the lower lip
and chin.
Collarbone (CB), just below the collarbone, near where
the collarbone and breastbone come together. From the
midline, trace under the collarbone just about 2” (or 5 cm)
to the right or the left.
Under the Arm (UA), torso starting at the armpit, go
down on the side of the body 4” or about 10 cm (where a
Image courtesy of The Tapping Solution bra would be on the body in that area).
Are You Out of Your Mind? continued from pg 3
Practice self-care. Stressors and frustrations can pile on. Make time for yourself — while
Care noting what rejuvenates and calms you — and you’ll see a big difference.
• Having a routine to manage your daily tasks simplifies and vastly improves your life. Here
are 40+ ideas for the ultimate self-care routine: http://bit.ly/3aRIM3E.
• Creative expression reduces stress and boosts brain power. Bring out your inner artist
with these mindful art activities: http://bit.ly/2P8ACLH.
• Try the Extreme Self Care Program. Author Cheryl Richardson’s self-care manual
offers 12 practical strategies to fix behaviors that cause self-betrayal. Richardson says
that making pleasure a priority is integral to extreme self-care. That could mean a week-
ly massage if you can afford it, or simple daily habits like drinking tea or listening to your
favorite music. Purchase the book here: http://bit.ly/37Ts1TF.
This list has nearly 300 categorized ideas for self-care: http://bit.ly/2O5ZHXm.
When we volunteer, give, or do for others, we make our world larger, we understand that
Charity by comparison we are blessed, and we have the capacity to make a difference. Charity takes the
focus off of our own issues and helps to lessen our focus on our own anxiety and troubles. There
is so much need, and it’s not difficult to find ways to help.
• Our communities need help and resources during this pandemic. Visit this link to find
non-medical and medical/vaccinator volunteer opportunities: http://bit.ly/3r6d7B4.
• You can support others without leaving your house. Go to www.VolunteerMatch.org/
virtual-volunteering to volunteer from anywhere.
• Giving back doesn’t have to take much time or money. You can donate your professional
skill set with Catchafire or shop while supporting an organization (look for Continuum
of Care on AmazonSmile). Find more ideas here: http://bzfd.it/3kEEAaN.
Check out this extensive list of creative ways to give back: http://bit.ly/3uTowX9.
It Could Happen to
Anyone Omar’s Story
Corps. “I had a GPA ioral health and substance use disor-
of over 3.3. I was do- ders.”
ing well,” he says. The clinical team at CMHC diag-
Everything changed nosed Omar with schizoaffective
on the night Omar was disorder. Taking his medication was a
violently assaulted by critical first step in getting his life
another Job Corps together. Connecting with mental
student. He developed health programs in the community
compulsive behaviors. was the next step that made all the
“I would wake up in difference in transforming his life. At
“I HAD NO IDEA what mental ill-
ness was,” Omar shares.
As a kid growing up in
the middle of the night with panic at-
tacks, and I would check the door to
see if I was safe. I couldn’t stop think-
one program’s meeting, he found out
Continuum was hiring for the Employ-
ment Apprenticeship Program.
Jamaica, he could have never predict- ing about what the guy had done to Since 2016, Continuum’s Employ-
ed the trauma that would me.” He would ment Apprenticeship Program has
change his life forever. wash his hands over provided people with mental health or
Omar remembers a and over because all co-occurring disorders an opportunity
very happy childhood on “I had no idea he could see was the to overcome barriers to competitive
the island, surrounded blood. employment. Apprentices are paid and
by family. He was a good
what mental Omar couldn’t receive hands-on training for 12 to 18
student with ambitions to illness was.” focus in school or months in four different areas: custodi-
work in computer science, keep a job, so he al, house cleaning, landscaping, and
but his family’s immigra- dropped out of moving. Thus far, 18 apprentices have
tion to the United States interrupted Gateway. He and his family had no graduated from the program, with 14
his studies at the University College of idea what was wrong with him, but it going on to full-time employment.
the Caribbean in Kingston. However, was his mom’s suggestion that he Being able to support himself
Omar was able to complete the diplo- speak to somebody that led him to again was pivotal for Omar. “The
ma portion of his computer science Connecticut Mental Health Center Employment Apprenticeship Program
and networking program, and had (CMHC). The clinician explained to changed my life,” he says.
plans to transfer his credits and contin- him that the trauma of his assault A motivated worker, Omar quick-
ue his education when he got settled. caused these
But moving to a foreign land behaviors.
proved to be incredibly unsettling. According to the
Omar didn’t know anyone in America, National Council
and he had no job or car to get around. for Behavioral
“It was hard for me to get used to the Health (2013):
culture,” he says. And it was so “Seventy percent
freezing cold. I wasn’t used to that sort of adults in the
of weather.” Depression set in. United States have
Still, Omar made strides to estab- experienced some
lish a life in the U.S. He began to study traumatic event at
computer science at Gateway Commu- least once in their
nity College while simultaneously lifetimes. Trauma
working in the school’s computer lab is a risk factor in
and taking additional classes with Job nearly all behav-
10 | THE CONTINUUM EXCHANGE | SPRING 2021-ly picked up portering at Continuum’s administrative building, and was well regarded for his diligence and gentle spir-
it. After 7 months, Continuum promoted him to Phase II of the program and placed him at another behavioral health
agency to work as an experienced porter and do facilities maintenance. His supervisor at Continuum frequently gets
glowing reviews on his behalf. “They appreciate what I do,” he says with a confident smile.
Omar shares, “Working with Continuum has made me feel a lot better about myself. I’ve been able to buy a car and
pay my bills. I realize when you’re not working, you feel a little bit more stressed out because you don’t have money to
do the things you want to do.”
Omar has been saving his money to go back to college and study computer science. His dream job is in computer
network engineering. Remarkably, he’s continued to thrive during our current pandemic, in spite of living with mental
health concerns that would surely be triggered by an invisible virus. “I make sure I take every precaution there is
possible to not contract the disease.” He maintains social connections through singing at church and playing tennis. His
Friday night ritual of binge watching movies and television is how he rewards himself for a hardworking week.
Ten years spent rebuilding his life has left Omar with this bit of wisdom: “Be true to yourself. Believe in yourself.
Have confidence. And keep dreaming big.”
Visit https://bit.ly/3jB2q6y to watch Omar’s story.
Source: National Council for Behavioral Health (2013). How to Manage Trauma. Retrieved 2020, Dec, from https://bit.ly/2MDByX7
Employee Spotlight
L EADERSHIP FROM CONTINUUM’S Forensic Division came together to
acknowledge a staff member that goes above and beyond. ALICE BRICK-
HOUSE was nominated. Below, her colleagues share their sentiments.
“I’ve known Alice for a long time and she’s always been a strong advocate
for the clients. She’s a team player and is always willing to go the extra
mile. The clients respect her and know she’s got their best interests in
mind. Alice is always willing to lend a hand, either to her coworkers or the
clients – and is a great role model for new staff coming into this field for the
first time. I can always trust that the job will get done when Alice is work-
ing! She is well versed and familiar with all of the forensic clients and never
looks down on them for their past. She’s a positive support system and we
couldn’t do this job without her!” – Dana Ashby
“Alice has been a part of the Forensic Division for
“Alice is one of a kind. She’s always willing to help others,
over three years, and in that time has demonstrated a
especially the clients. When they are down and having a
natural ability to connect with and empower clients
difficult time getting through the day, she is there to give
and staff alike. Alice is the epitome of what it means
encouraging words. Alice is flexible in her schedule and
to be a team player and is always willing to cover the
comes in when needed. Alice always does her job in great
extra shift, split her time between programs, and get
spirits and never complains. We work with some difficult
any errand completed. She constantly exceeds expec-
individuals and it does get tough and stressful at times, but
tations and is well respected by both clients and her
Alice is always ready to get the job done.” – Shirell Manick
peers. We could not thank Alice enough for her hard
work and loyalty to our programs.” – Briana Leary
To submit an Employee Spotlight
for the next newsletter, email
jwilson@continuumct.orgNatoya hasn’t been able to attend her day program
for adults with disabilities since COVID started. So,
she has been using her arts and crafts time to make
a tag blanket to use when she’s relaxing on the
couch. Tag blankets offer relief for those with
sensory issues. Even though she can’t hear or see,
Natoya still accomplishes projects with the help and
patience of staff at our Norwich House.
Homebound
&
Thriving
The ever-enterprising residents of our Young
Adult Services programs printed the winning
T-shirt designs from a contest Continuum held
last summer. Staff and clients were tasked with
designing shirts that address social injustice. Visit
www.ContinuumCT.org/tshirt-contest to see the
creative designs.
Melissa from our Community Integration Program
has not been working due to COVID, so she’s been
working with staff to fill her time productively. In
addition to arts and crafts, household projects, and
cooking, she has been able to continue her horse-
back riding. It’s been great for her wellbeing.
12 | THE CONTINUUM EXCHANGE | SPRING 2021Follow us on Facebook for more pictures & video: www.Facebook.com/ContinuumConnecticut
In December, Continuum held our first virtual
fundraiser, a concert with local rock duo Nunz n
Pepin. The band — comprised of singer-
songwriter-musician Sal Annunziato and pianist-
guitarist Roland Pepin — performed a lively mix
of holiday tunes, rock, soul and oldies. We also
shared videos of our clients during the event so
attendees could get a glimpse into the lives of the
people we serve. Thanks to our generous spon-
sors and raffle donors and buyers, we were able
to raise $30,000! We are grateful for everyone
that helped us pull off a fundraising event in such
uncharted territory. Watch the show here:
https://bit.ly/3qUY78I.
Residents of the Intensive Supportive
Living Program celebrated the holidays
with a homemade brunch. It must have
been delicious judging by the smiles on
their faces!
The “Bodies in Motion” class at the New
Haven Halfway House has been a big hit dur-
ing COVID. Each week, staff lead a variety of
exercise classes at the program. It’s a safe
way for residents to stay active and they
really look forward to it.A Parent’s Story
O UR SON JASON* did well in
school. As a child he never had
any issues with teachers or peers, was
well liked, played piano and trumpet,
and was in marching and jazz bands.
He won art awards and helped us to
raise 3 guide dog puppies for the
blind. As a young Boy Scout, he helped
provide first aid to a stranger at a rest
stop who experienced a heart attack.
Jason graduated from college with a
degree in Mobile Forensics – a normal,
great kid.
About a year and a half after
college, things went sideways. Jason
was working in a high stress job in
New Jersey. The pressure of keeping
up with a new job as well as new
roommates in a strange town started with Ativan. We tried to get him into a refused medication. We found him the
to take its toll. He started abusing rehab program, but everything was on perfect place close to family, in a great
Adderall to stay awake, and drinking hold for the holidays. Finally, our location and with plenty of things to
heavily and using other drugs to prayers were answered when he was do. This independence lasted 1 week.
compensate. We suspect that the stress accepted into an intensive outpatient Without the medications and
and the drug use could have contribut- program (IOP) in Hartford on January therapy, he crashed and burned, and
ed to triggering the start of his mental 3, 2016. we brought him home a second time.
health issues, but we cannot say for The IOP was helpful but required This led to more depression, and even-
sure. Over time, it got out of hand long drives to Hartford 3 times a week tually a 30-day hospitalization at
and he hit rock bottom. for 3 hours a day. That took its toll Bristol Hospital. He refused to take
It started around Christmas in on him and he dropped out of the meds in the hospital which led to a
2015 when Jason was on his way from program. The psychosis worsened very traumatic forced injection. Fortu-
New Jersey to visit friends in Vermont. because he refused to take medication. nately, before he was to be taken to the
While en route, he started to halluci- I will never forget 2 weeks into the State mental hospital in Middletown,
nate, so he pulled over to a rest area program, when he ran out into the cold he agreed to take meds and came
and called 911. Emergency responders winter night, jumped our fence and home again, a third time.
brought him to a hospital. We were in started to run into the woods. Eventu- This led to another failed IOP, but
Florida at the time. He was released ally, we were able to coax him back he started a medication routine that
home into our care, and this is when into the house. That was when I knew lasted about 2 years. Jason was stable
our journey began. this was a much bigger issue than what and, while he really could not work, he
After he came home, the severe just a few weeks of rehab or IOP could volunteered at the food pantry and
psychosis began. Jason thought the FBI handle. Finally, the last week of Janu- was seeing a private psychologist
had cars watching him from the drive- ary, he was hospitalized for a week at weekly. At that time, he was
way. He thought a chip was planted another hospital and placed on medi- diagnosed with major depressive
in his brain by aliens. He was afraid cation. After being discharged to our disorder. In February 2019, he decided
people were going to harm him. At home, he stopped taking meds again, to stop taking his medication again,
first, we chalked it up to the aftermath but agreed to stay in the IOP in Hart- and things quickly spiraled
of drug-induced psychosis, and alco- ford for another 3 weeks. At the end of downward. He was still living at
hol and drug withdrawal. After a few February, he convinced the staff that home, and began stealing money from
trips to the ER, we thought it would he could do it on his own, and that we us to get alcohol. He was thrown out
pass. The ER would not admit him were returning to work and felt he of bars for not paying his bill, and he
because he “was not a threat to himself would be fine living in his own apart- acquired a couple of larceny charges.
or others.” So, they sent him home ment with no roommates. He still
*name changed for anonymity
14 | THE CONTINUUM EXCHANGE | SPRING 2021We anguished and struggled to ents to ultimately move toward living engaged us in the process as much as
find a solution. He was on the verge independently on solid ground, in life- possible, while respecting Jason’s pri-
of incarceration or suicide, and we felt long recovery. John was the first per- vacy and HIPAA laws. We became
he needed to go back to the hospital to son to convince Jason that he needed better equipped to be advocates and
get help. In September 2019, things long-term care. We are forever grateful partners instead of adversaries.
were really bad. Jason’s psychosis was for his intervention. We believe he Our biggest regret is that we did
coupled with severe manic episodes of saved Jason’s life. not find Continuum sooner. So much
angry outbursts, heavy drinking, disre- Jason was discharged from St. time and money was wasted. The cost
specting our property, swearing, and Vincent’s to CRS’ Luna’s Path, which to Medicare of Jason’s medical care in
threatening and accusing us of poison- offers the most intensive level of care. and out of hospitals, and in less
ing him and stealing his money. The Luna’s provides 24/7 supervised, resi- effective programs, exceeded $400,000
police were called several times dential care and is an alternative to and we really did not make sustaina-
and each encounter ended without hospitalization. It includes medication ble headway. The cost of 11 months in
confrontation, but most ended in the monitoring, daily therapies, case man- Continuum Recovery Services was
ambulance. From October to December agement, wellness, and life skills train-significantly less. At CRS, Jason
of 2019, he was hospitalized 3 times for ing and support. More importantly, it learned how to better cope with his
7 to 14 days at Natchaug, Backus, and sets a foundation of care that is built illness, and the importance of medica-
finally St. Vincent’s. Medicare paid in on continuity and trust. He loved the tions. The biggest hurdle is the
excess of $400,000 for the accumulated staff and program so much that he did acceptance of the illness. Without it,
cost of emergency and inpatient hospi- not want to leave! Eventually, he moving forward is almost impossible.
tal stays. The continued problem was stepped down to David’s Path, which CRS was invaluable in helping with
that he would not participate in IOPs, provides 12-hour, supervised residen- that step.
which led to a disconnection of As parents, we know that Jason
services when he was discharged has much work to do on his own, and
“The biggest hurdle is
from the hospital. we are here for support. The biggest
In December 2019, Jason was in the acceptance of the challenge in the health care system, in
crisis and was sent to St. Vincent's illness. Without it, our experience, is the need to shift
Hospital. He was there for about 2 moving forward is insurance dollars, specifically from
weeks until he stabilized and was Medicare Part A hospitalizations to
almost impossible. CRS
ready to be discharged. There, Jason long-term mental health residential
was diagnosed with schizoaffective was invaluable in helping living programs with portals like
disorder (a combination of schizophre- with that step.” Luna’s Path. Adults like Jason who are
nia and bipolar disorders). We needed on SSDI benefits do not qualify for
to find a residential mental health pro- tial treatment, including clinical and Medicaid, and they are forced to be on
gram in order to find a solid, long- professional support staff, group Medicare which does not cover
term solution. We heard about and therapies, and medication observation. residential treatment for mental health.
loved the sound of Continuum of After several months, Jason moved on Without specific changes in Medicare
Care’s Recovery Services program to Tyler’s Path, where he lived in a and Medicaid, adults like Jason will
(CRS), so we reached out and met with congregate setting with others who remain without coverage for long-term
the vice president, John Labieniec. Ja- were on their recovery journey. residential treatment. It is not finan-
son’s trust had been completely broken One of the biggest advantages of the cially sustainable for an individual
by then. He wouldn't talk to anybody programs is the frequent contact with with a severe psychotic illness to live
and he wanted nothing to do with any the clinical team for medication and independently on SSDI without sup-
kind of medical treatment. Somehow, therapies. The case manager and social port. Presently, insurance and society
John was able to get through to him. workers were invaluable in helping are footing the bill for excessive hospi-
He drove to St. Vincent’s Hospital in Jason with day to day living activities. tal costs, prisons, and homelessness.
Bridgeport, CT to meet Jason. It was We cannot thank CRS’ APRN enough Public and private sectors need to form
that conversation which helped con- for the oversight of the medications a better partnership with mental health
vince Jason to try Continuum Recov- that were crucial at that time. providers to ensure longevity and
ery Services. The program offers multi- John encouraged us to enroll in success for the future. Programs like
ple “paths” that provide different lev- NAMI’s 10-week Family-to-Family Continuum of Care are necessary for
els of residential care while integrating course. It really helped us be more people like Jason to have the best
and maintaining therapy and medica- aware of the valuable resources availa- quality of life and to remain
tion management. The goal is for cli- ble to us. Simultaneously, CRS staff productive members of society.In Memoriam
S ADLY, PEOPLE with serious mental illness are often compromised by chronic medical conditions. They tend to
die 25 years younger than the general population due to critical health issues. Serving this vulnerable popula-
tion means dealing with loss, and for our staff it is as difficult as losing a family member. Continuum’s clients
who have passed on will forever remain in our minds and hearts.
ELIZABETH started out in our Extended Living Programs in 2010. From there,
she graduated through many Continuum of Care programs — eventually
getting her own apartment in the community. She was always kind to anyone
she met and left a lasting imprint. She enjoyed cooking with her peers and
going to church every week. She will be greatly be missed by those who
knew her. - Lisa Acosta, Extended Living Program
Elizabeth Williams
Dec. 18, 1962 - July 22, 2019
CHRIS had an uplifting energy. He challenged your ideas through his witty
humor and charm. Chris was a healer, and believed in the existence of good
in humanity. He was a teacher while always being open to learn. Working
with Chris was nothing short of a blessed experience, and we were grateful to
have met him. - Shayla Collier, Continuum Recovery Services
Christopher Vasil
Nov. 24, 1995 - Oct. 11, 2020
JOSE was a wonderful man who lived a long, happy life. At the age of 80, he
was still very active and always on the go. Born in Cuba and a longtime resi-
dent of Honduras, Jose recently moved to the U.S. to start a new life with his
bride. Unfortunately, Jose acquired and ultimately passed away from COVID-
19. Jose may be gone, but he’s not forgotten. We’ll always remember him fondly.
- Virginia Mittelstadt, Crisis & Respite, Bridgeport
Jose Cuadra
May 7, 1940 - April 10, 2020
SUSAN was a daughter, sister, wife, mother and grandmother. I came to
know her during a period of her life when she needed support. In my role
as the CIEP Coordinator, I’m privileged to have had the opportunity to
spend a great deal of time assisting her. I came into her life as a vessel and,
though it was a brief season, I believe the reason was so that she had a
friend in the end. Ms. Susan, you are etched in my memory always.
- Nina Moore-Wallace, Community Integration Evaluation Program Susan Esposito
Sept. 29, 1949 - July 3, 2019
16 | THE CONTINUUM EXCHANGE | SPRING 2021DAVID came to us in September 2010. He was one of the original residents of
The Winthrop House. He later graduated into his own independent apartment
in the community. David was quiet and laidback, but had a wonderful sense of
humor. He loved watching his favorite show Friends and his favorite game
show the Price of Right. He enjoyed taking walks around the Hamden High
track with his staff. - George E. Pipkin III, Mental Health Waiver Program
David was always thoughtful and often expressed how much he appreciated
my compassionate care. He helped me look at life with a different perspective,
and taught me to appreciate the small things. - Brianna Curtis, Mental Health
David Przygocki
Waiver Program Jan. 27, 1971 - March 3, 2020
VIVIAN!!! Some called her a firecracker, and indeed she was. Vivian was
easy-going and loved her family and shopping. A wonderful soul with a
loving personality, Vivian was determined to maintain her independence,
and was always working hard and striving for better. She departed us too
soon and will be greatly missed.
- Simona Williams, Community Support Program
Vivian Lilley
Nov. 1, 1963 - Aug. 20, 2020
ROBERT was a hardheaded, yet kind man. He cared about the people he was
surrounded by more than himself! He loved history, California, and his travels.
He is fondly remembered by his two sons, Nick and Robert.
- Milagros Romero, Mental Health Waiver Program
Robert Hughes
Dec. 7, 1955 - Jan. 4, 2021
MARK found a home in the Expansion Program on Blake Street when the
program was first developed. In the 5 years that he was with Continuum, he
built connections with his peers, staff, and community providers — all of whom
he perceived as family, and vice versa. He is greatly missed and will be remem-
bered for his love for classic rock and enjoying seafood on the beach; his excite-
ment for community excursions to diners, museums, zoos and aquariums; and
his passion for walking many trails. Words can't describe what he meant to us.
He impacted all who knew him in a positive way through his strength and resil-
ience. It is because of this that the program will be renamed in his honor as
Mark’s Walk. We are in this field for a reason, and many of us have a WHY for
why we do what we do. Mark has become our WHY for many of us. We will
Mark Jasper
Aug. 15, 1962 – Feb. 8, 2021 continue to work hard and advocate for our residents and cheer them on as we
did for him, and as he would want us to do for others. “Fly high, free bird.”
- Lisa Acosta, Extended Living Program, Blake Street Expansion (Mark’s Walk)Dates of Awareness
March is Social Work April is National Autism May is Mental Health June 27 is PTSD Awareness
Month. It was first orga- Awareness Month. In Month. It’s a time to raise Day. PTSD is a mental health
nized in March of 1963 by 1972, it was initially created awareness about the mental issue that can occur after being
the National Association of as a week of awareness by health issues that affect as exposed to a traumatic event,
Social Workers to encour- the Autism Society of many as 1 in 5 Americans, and and it can affect Veterans and
age public support for the America, the nation’s oldest to reduce the stigma. This non-Veterans alike. In 2010,
profession. The White leading grassroots autism year, the organization Mental Senator Kent Conrad pushed
House officially recognized organization. Autism Aware- Health America (MHA) is for the official recognition of
Social Work Month in 1984. ness Month was created to continuing with their 2020 PTSD via a “day of awareness.”
This year’s theme for Social promote better awareness theme of Tools 2 Thrive. They The date was inspired by the
Work Month is Social Work- of the signs, symptoms, and offer resources and coping birthday of North Dakota Na-
ers are Essential. The crises of realities of autism; provide strategies around the com- tional Guard Staff Sgt. Joe Biel
COVID-19 and social unrest resources for the communi- mon struggles that affect who died in 2007 after suffering
truly demonstrated how ty; and to encourage ac- mental health, which is espe- from PTSD. Over 8 million
essential social workers are ceptance and inclusivity. For cially critical as the COVID- adults are diagnosed with PTSD
to supporting the health of more information, visit 19 pandemic is ongoing. MHA during a given year in the U.S.
the community. At Continu- http://bit.ly/2OhQWt9. wants to spread the word For more information about
um, we are fortunate to that mental health is some- PTSD and treatments, please
work alongside these inspir- thing everyone should care visit www.ptsd.va.gov.
ing people every day. about — and we agree!
A New Kind of Healthcare continued from pg 7
to virtually meet to work on their goals; managing life have provided quarantined clients with a much needed
skills like organization and cooking or connecting socially, outlet and continued connection to providers and the com-
for example. This alternative way of connecting has been munity.
crucial for those who are not comfortable working in While virtual services may not be a long-term replace-
person during this time or who have had to quarantine. ment for in-person services, it enables providers and staff
Keeping individuals engaged in services while using with a way to check in on clients’ health and safety and
virtual supports can be a big challenge and there are some offer them support. Staying connected to others while so-
limitations on what activities can be done. “Technology has cial distancing is tough for us all, but maintaining the con-
been an extremely helpful tool for us during this pandem- nection to supportive services is an essential lifeline for
ic,” says James Cole, CIP direct care staff and administra- Continuum’s clients who are rebuilding their lives during
tive assistant. “We have been getting creative and offering these challenging times.
some fun virtual recreational group activities to keep
people connected during this time, such as bingo, arts Sources:
and crafts, and a movie club.” Continuum’s residential CDC (2020). Trends in the Use of Telehealth During the Emergence of
programs have also been tasked with employing creative the COVID-19 Pandemic — United States, January–March 2020. Re-
trieved 2020, Jan, from https://bit.ly/39sA3Ec
measures. Programs with positive COVID cases have
obtained tablets for clients who are quarantining in their
Healthcare Finance (2020). Behavioral health providers embracing
rooms or apartments. This technology enables them to telehealth during the COVID-19 pandemic. Retrieved 2020, Jan from
continue engaging in groups and services within the https://bit.ly/3t6kKJh
program as well as with outside providers. The tablets
18 | THE CONTINUUM EXCHANGE | SPRING 2021Creative Corner
Nick, from Continuum’s Employment Apprenticeship
Program, has been creating art in a variety of mediums
since 2008. Pictured to the left is an oil painting done on
wax paper of the Great Wall of China.
Kim, a staff member of
our Oregon Road pro-
gram for clients with
developmental disabili-
ties, is pictured model-
ing a matching mask and purse set she made with a
resident. The client gifted the set to his mother for
Christmas.
Jennifer, a client with the
Community Integration
Program, did a ton of cre-
ative projects to maintain
her wellness during quar-
antine. Above, she’s pic-
tured creating homemade
lip gloss. Bottom right
image is one of many
items she tie-dyed.The Work We Do
N OT EVEN A pandemic can stop us from expanding our mission, helping people who are challenged with mental
illnesses, intellectual disabilities, and/or struggling with addiction to rebuild a meaningful life and thrive in the
community.
Here are just a few of the new things we’ve been up to:
Racial Justice Task Force
Close to 30 employees have joined Continuum’s Racial Justice
Task Force. The team meets monthly to learn, exchange ideas,
and ultimately help Continuum find ways to ensure we live up to
our values and foster an even more supportive and racially just
culture for employees, clients, and the communities we serve.
Meanwhile, we continuously add new resources to our website to
help all of us learn and be inspired to cultivate a more antiracist
world: www.ContinuumCT.org/AntiRacism.
Employees may join the task force by emailing
dsticht@continuumct.org.
Exclusive START Model Certification
Continuum of Care has been exclusively selected to be the organization
in Connecticut to become trained and certified for START Coordination,
and will ultimately be able to train other qualified providers to learn to
Expanded Services for Veterans
use the model for
crisis intervention
with their clients
of all ages. The
START Model is a We are tripling the size of our Veterans
person-centered, program! Continuum’s Veterans Recovery
solutions-focused Support Program is a collaborative effort
approach that with local clinical providers and the Veter-
employs positive ans Hospital that offers crisis stabilization
psychology and beds (for 10-21 days) alongside outpatient
other evidence- clinical care and day services as a short-
based practices. term alternative to psychiatric inpatient
The comprehen- care. The program provides residents with
sive model of service supports and optimizes independence, treatment, a comfortable, peaceful home-like environ-
and community living for individuals with an Intellectual Developmental ment and assists them with a successful
Disability (IDD), including Autism, and behavioral health needs. Current- transition to the community while maintain-
ly, providers in only 10 states across the US have been trained and certi- ing their clinical and community supports.
fied as START Coordinators, utilizing a method of community based We currently serve approximately 100 Vet-
tertiary care crisis intervention for individuals with IDD and behavioral erans each year, but the VA has requested
health needs. that we expand our capacity. Sometime this
summer, we will open a second facility for
Veterans services in New Haven, and ulti-
mately help between 250 and 300 Veterans
to begin to rebuild their lives each year.
20 | THE CONTINUUM EXCHANGE | SPRING 2021New Forever Home for 3 Special Ladies from Rhode Island
The State of Rhode Island Behavioral Healthcare,
Developmental Disabilities and Hospitals
(BHDDH) reached out to Continuum because of
our experience and reputation for being able to
provide highly effective housing and specialized
services for individuals with complex dual diagno-
ses (i.e., mental illness and intellectual disabilities).
BHDDH needed to place three of their special
young women for whom they were unable to find
adequate housing and expert services in Rhode
Island. We enthusiastically said “yes” after meeting
the women who require extensive support, and
moved quickly to start the process. As of this
month, we are fully staffed, the ladies have moved
in, and we are pleased to see how well they are
adjusting to their new forever home.
CT Leaders Visit Continuum for
CARES Act Coronavirus Relief
In October, Senator
Richard Blumenthal,
Lt. Governor Susan
Bysiewicz, and
Congresswoman
Rosa DeLauro visited
Continuum’s Crisis
and Respite Services
program to see how
we used our CARES
Act coronavirus relief
funding. Bysiewicz and
DeLauro noted that
Continuum provides
cost effective mental
health care that is especially needed during this global pandemic. Continuum
is so grateful to receive funding that helps us keep people safe and employed
as we deliver our critical mental health services.
Protecting Clients & Staff with
the COVID-19 Vaccine
Continuum was fortunate to get the opportunity to get
COVID vaccines for our staff and clients. Pictured is one
of our employees getting her first dosage of the Moderna
vaccine. Disha says she is grateful to be able to do her part
to stop the spread of COVID-19.Hobbies to do at Home
T HE CORONAVIRUS OUTBREAK hit all of us hard, and now the vast majority of people are staying at home a whole
lot more. The problem is, staying at home can get a bit uneventful. Hang in there. If you’re looking for good ways
to “kill time,” check out these creative do-it-yourself projects and crafts that will keep you productive and boredom-
free in and outside of quarantine.
CREATE YOUR OWN GREETING
CARD using family photos, old draw-
ings, or your own design. Online edit-
ing software makes the process much
faster, enabling you to select from a
wide range of pre-made designs. You’ll
have fun creating and the recipient of
your card will treasure your thought-
fulness. Check out Canva.com for digi-
tal designs and The Spruce Crafts
(https://bit.ly/35XBFnb) for ideas for
handmade cards.
PLANT A GARDEN — Just grab a
few basic gardening tools and
WRITE IN A JOURNAL to docu- seeds for veggies and spices at
ment your everyday life during the your nearest store or online. If
pandemic. Write down the latest you don’t have a backyard, you
news, what’s happening in your can still plant them in your home.
home, and how you feel. Writing Place your plants near the window
down your feelings will help you and watch them grow and beautify
process the complex emotions your space, little by little. Apart-
provoked by the stress of the pan- ment Therapy has great tips on
demic. Your journal can help you bringing your garden indoors:
reflect on your experiences, and https://bit.ly/3c0UZnt.
serve as inspiration to persevere
during tough times. These journal
prompts will inspire you to put pen
to paper: https://bit.ly/3bXkt3v.
GET MOVING — While virtually any type of physical activity can boost your
mood, pursuing a type of movement you enjoy will make you look forward
to each sweat session. Dance is an excellent option because it can be as sim-
ple as putting on your favorite tune and dancing around your living room, or
you can challenge yourself to learn technique with a class. Dance serves as
“moving meditation” as it enables you to free yourself from your overactive
mind and fully inhabit your body as you focus on the present moment. Dance
Magazine has a great list of online dance classes: https://bit.ly/3qDDNIR.
CHEF IT UP — It’s widely believed that certain foods can improve physical
and mental health, but the act of cooking has also been linked to anxiety and
depression relief. Preparing a meal requires focusing on the task at hand, and
chopping, stirring, and sautéing can be downright meditative. One key to
keeping cooking fun is trying new ingredients. Look for recipes that incorpo-
rate foods known for their depression and anxiety-busting benefits. WebMD
suggests plenty of antioxidants and protein, “smart” carbs, B vitamins, and
omega-3 fatty acids. This site has 26 recipes that will boost your mood:
http://bit.ly/3e73caP.
22 | THE CONTINUUM EXCHANGE | SPRING 2021You can also read
